By Cathy Burroughs
When you think of luxury, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? If we had to guess, the word “expensive” is probably at the top of the list. journeyPod is here to prove you wrong. Luxury doesn’t have to cost you your life savings. Take a look at our top 10 affordable luxury hotels in the World:
1. Taj Mahal Hotel, New Delhi: At the heart of New Delhi, lies, arguably, the most distinguished address in India’s capital. On Number One Mansingh Road stands a tribute to timeless hospitality and service, complementing the broad boulevards and leafy splendour of Delhi’s chief architect, Edwin Lutyens. Doubles from $192.
2. Pangkor Laut Resort, Malaysia: TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice® 2012 Winner for Best Service, Relaxation and Spa, Luxury and Top 25, the list of Affordable Luxury Hotels wouldn’t be complete without the mention. Comfort, warmth and contemporary elegance find a unique home on the private island of Pangkor Laut. This one-of-a-kind resort nestles comfortably into its jungle island habitat, offering guests beautifully appointed accommodation. Doubles from $243.
3. Victoria House, Belize: Another TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice® 2012 Winner, the positive reviews say it all! Victoria House is an award winning luxury resort located on the island of Ambergris Caye, Belize, in the Western Caribbean and is one of the most luxurious places you’ll ever want to stroll around barefoot. Doubles from $185.
4. Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale, Arizona: Ranked #2 of 78 hotels in Scottsdale, the Four Seasons is a true delight! Nestled into the foothills of Pinnacle Peak – amid towering, multi-armed saguaro cacti – the adobe casitas of the Resort embody the desert’s magic through thoughtful design and the outstanding talent of regional artists and craftspeople. Doubles from $139.
5. Ashford Castle, Ireland: Looking for a luxury romantic getaway at an affordable price? Look no further! Dating back to 1228 and once the estate of the Guinness family, the luxurious 5 Star Ashford Castle was voted Best Resort Hotel in Europe by readers of Conde Nast Traveller 2010. Doubles from $240.
6. Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas: Awarded the esteemed AAA Five Diamond Award rating and the coveted Forbes Five-Star award the Hotel offers spectacular accommodations, a relaxing Spa, fine-dining and legendary service all steps away from some of the city’s most renown casinos, shopping and entertainment. Doubles from $255.
7. Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac, Quebec City: With the mighty Saint-Lawrence River as the backdrop, Fairmont Le Château Frontenac is not merely a hotel located in the heart of Old Québec – it is the heart of Old Québec. Your experience at this unique, heritage urban resort will guarantee you a memorable and inspiring stay in one of the most beautiful, and walkable, cities in the world. Doubles from $170.
8. Turnberry Resort, Scotland: A TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice® 2012 Winner, Turnberry Resort, one of the most enchanting hotels in Scotland, stands sentinel above historic Ayrshire lands. In life, in dreams, Turnberry Resort, Scotland is a hotel to imagine. Doubles from $220.
9. Casa de Sierra Nevada, Mexico: A cluster of historic buildings at the centre of the city, this charming Orient-Express hotel offers the ultimate Mexican experience. Cool, leafy gardens, stone arches and traditional wooden doors surround pretty courtyards lit by lanterns as night falls. Doubles from $222.
10. San Clemente Palace & Hotel, Venice: Recognized by Forbes Traveler, Travel + Leisure, Conde Nast & many more distinguished outlets. A private Island, in the heart of the Lagoon, guests can savor the light summer breeze, or admire a colorful Venice, as if they were part of a Canaletto painting. Doubles from $247 (including breakfast).
